Heat-related deaths in the U.S. reached over 2,300 last year, likely an undercount…reports Asian Lite News
California sweltered on Tuesday, with heat alerts affecting nearly 90 million people across the U.S. during the Fourth of July holiday week. The National Weather Service attributed the extreme heat to high-pressure ridges off the West Coast and from Kansas to the Gulf Coast. Sacramento faced an excessive heat warning, expecting temperatures between 105-115°F (40.5-46.1°C) until Sunday, media reported.
In Butte County, about 70 miles north of Sacramento, crews battled the Thompson Fire amid scorching conditions, forcing 13,000 people to evacuate. The wildfire quickly grew to over 3 square miles with zero containment, as firefighters and helicopters worked to protect homes. Federal funding and state resources were mobilized to support firefighting efforts.
According to Associated Press report, residents struggled to cope with the intense heat. John Mendoza, 35, described it as a “firehose of heat,” resorting to frequent dips in the pool. Katherine Powers, a homeless woman in Sacramento, sought shade in Cathedral Square, finding it challenging to transport her belongings to cooling centers. Fairfield resident Darlene Crumedy relied on fans to stay cool, avoiding costly air conditioning.
Heat-related deaths in the U.S. reached over 2,300 last year, likely an undercount, according to an Associated Press analysis. Dr. Arthur Jey from Sutter Health emphasized the importance of avoiding heat stroke by staying hydrated, wearing loose clothing, and recognizing symptoms like severe headaches and profuse sweating.
The heat wave was expected to spread from north to south California, with interior areas like the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys facing the brunt. San Francisco saw highs in the upper 80s downtown but cooler temperatures at Ocean Beach.
PG&E implemented power shutoffs in parts of 10 counties to prevent wildfire risks from downed electrical wires, affecting about 12,000 customers. The Basin Fire in the Sierra National Forest, the largest current blaze, was 17% contained after burning over 21 square miles since June 26.
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